Driving under the influence of alcohol is a major cause of accidents on the roads of Texas. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, in 2019, there were 24,166 DUI-related crashes resulting in 13,476 injuries and 886 fatalities. When a drunk driver causes an accident that results in injuries or property damage, it is important to seek the help of an experienced and skilled Texas City drunk driving accident lawyer to protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve. At Joe I. Zaid & Associates, our Houston personal injury attorneys are committed to your case and will work tirelessly to ensure that justice is served.
What to Do After a Drunk Driving Accident in Texas
The moments following a car accident can be confusing, especially if you suspect that the at-fault driver was under the influence of alcohol. Here are some important steps to take after being involved in a drunk driving accident:
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Call 911: The safety and well-being of everyone involved should be your first priority. Call the police and report the accident, informing them that you suspect the other driver is intoxicated. The police will investigate and may arrest the drunk driver, which can be used as evidence in your personal injury claim.
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Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, it is crucial to get checked out by a medical professional. Some injuries may not present symptoms immediately, and having a thorough medical examination will help establish a connection between the accident and any injuries you may have sustained.
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Document the scene: If it is safe to do so, take photos or videos of the accident scene, including damage to the vehicles, skid marks, and any other relevant details. This can serve as valuable evidence when building your case.
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Gather witness information: Speak to anyone who may have witnessed the accident and ask for their contact information. Their statements can help corroborate your version of events and provide additional evidence of the drunk driver’s negligence.
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Contact a drunk driving accident lawyer: Enlisting the help of an experienced Texas City drunk driving accident lawyer is crucial for navigating the complex legal process and ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve. They will handle all aspects of your case, including negotiating with insurance companies and representing you in court if necessary.
How a Texas City Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Can Help
When you hire a skilled and dedicated attorney from Joe I. Zaid & Associates, you can expect the following services:
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Investigation and evidence gathering: Our attorneys will thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident, gathering crucial evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and medical records to build a strong case on your behalf.
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Expert consultation: We may consult with experts in various fields, such as accident reconstruction, toxicology, and medical professionals, to provide further support for your claim and establish the extent of your injuries and damages.
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Negotiating with insurance companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize the amount they pay out in claims. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators and will fight to ensure that you receive a fair settlement that adequately compensates you for your injuries, property damage, and other losses.
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Litigation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, our attorneys are prepared to take your case to court. We will present a compelling case to the jury, using the evidence gathered during our investigation and expert testimony to prove the drunk driver’s negligence and liability for your damages.
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Pursuing punitive damages: In some cases, the actions of the drunk driver may be so egregious that the court may award punitive damages in addition to compensatory damages. These are intended to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior in the future.
Common Injuries in Drunk Driving Accidents
The injuries sustained in a drunk driving accident can range from minor to severe and may include:
- Whiplash
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Lacerations and contusions
- Burns
- Emotional trauma, such as PTSD
The severity of these injuries can lead to substantial medical bills, lost wages, and other damages that can put a significant financial strain on victims and their families. A Texas City drunk driving accident lawyer can help you recover compensation for these damages and hold the drunk driver accountable for their actions.
Contact Joe I. Zaid & Associates for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured in a drunk driving accident in Texas, do not hesitate to contact the experienced attorneys at Joe I. Zaid & Associates. Our Houston personal injury attorneys are committed to your case and will work diligently to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. To schedule a free consultation, call us at (346) 756-9243 or visit our office at 4710 Vista Rd. Suite E Pasadena, TX 77505. Don’t let a drunk driver’s reckless actions go unpunished – let us help you fight for justice and secure the financial assistance you need to recover from your injuries.
